How to get rid of yellow stains from white fabrics

There are several remedies, including natural ones, to deal with the annoying problem of yellow spots on white fabrics. First, it’s important to avoid using bleach. To eliminate yellowing effectively, we can instead use: baking soda, vinegar, soap, ammonia and lemon juice.

The problem of yellow spots on white fabrics it is often caused by sweat, but there can be other reasons as well. Many think it is difficult to get rid of these stains: the only solution seems to be to stop wearing that yellowed white shirt or t-shirt!

But, in reality, there are several solutions to eliminate yellow stains from white fabrics: continue reading and you will discover the most effective remedies (even natural ones) to say goodbye to this annoying problem.

Eliminate yellow stains from white fabrics: no to bleach

The yellowing of the fabrics is due to the continuous contact with the skin and any cosmetic products used on it. As difficult as it may be to eliminate them, there are some very effective remedies, which can give us the opportunity to continue using that item of clothing for a long time to come.

The first tip is to do not use bleach: this substance, in fact, will make the yellow stain permanent.

Hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and salt

Source: Pixabay

When it comes to removing yellow stains from white fabrics, there are two remedies that work best:

1. hydrogen peroxide
2. sodium bicarbonate.

Both substances have powerful anti-stain capabilities!

When hydrogen peroxide breaks down, it releases oxygen gas. This process (known as oxidation) removes stains or, in essence, “bleaches” them.

Baking soda’s slight alkalinity makes it great at removing grease and oil, two ingredients that contribute to yellow spots. Also, when mixed with water, it can help lift dirt and other particles like antiperspirants. Thanks to its crystalline structure, baking soda is also an excellent abrasive.

Like baking soda, salt (found in all kitchens) is also abrasive. Its granular texture makes it great for scrubbing the toughest stains and absorbing grease and oil.

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups of baking soda
• 2 teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide
• 1.5 teaspoons of salt
• Terrine
• Cleaning brush, old toothbrush or other short-bristled brush

Instructions

• Combine the hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and salt.
• Moisten the yellow spots with cold water.
• Apply the mixture to the yellow spots.
• Let it rest for 20-30 minutes.
• Rub the mixture into the stains with a scrub brush (or toothbrush).
• Machine wash in cold water with your regular laundry detergent for one wash cycle.

The longer you let the hydrogen peroxide sit, the better. You can also mix equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide and leave the stained shirt to soak overnight, then treat the stains using the above method the next day.

Dish soap, hydrogen peroxide and baking soda

Dish soap is great stain resistant.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of liquid dish soap
• 2 cups of hydrogen peroxide
• Sodium bicarbonate
• Terrine
• Cleaning brush, old toothbrush or other short-bristled brush

Instructions

• Combine the dish soap and hydrogen peroxide.
• Apply the mixture to the yellow spot.
• Sprinkle some baking soda on the stained area.
• Let the garment rest for an hour.
• Use your brush (or toothbrush) to gently scrub with the baking soda.
• Machine wash in cold water with your regular laundry detergent for one wash cycle.

Dry the shirt in the sun (and not in the dryer) for even brighter results!

White vinegar, baking soda, salt and hydrogen peroxide

This powerful combination works well together to remove stubborn stains.

Ingredients

• 1 cup white vinegar (do not use other types of vinegar)
• 2 cups of hydrogen peroxide
• ½ cup of baking soda
• 1 tablespoon of salt
• Terrine
• Cleaning brush, old toothbrush or other short-bristled brush

Instructions

• Mix all ingredients.
• Use the brush or toothbrush to apply the mixture to the yellow stain.
• Soak the shirt: For more recent stains, a 10 to 15 minute soak should suffice; for older stains, let the shirt sit for a few hours or overnight for best results.
• Wash the garment in the washing machine with cold water and normal laundry detergent for one wash cycle.

Soap

Normal soap is a really effective ally against yellow stains caused by sweat. It is perfect for those allergic to traditional laundry products and is also gentle on the fabric itself.

When clothes are stained, it’s important to act as soon as possible: rub the bar of soap on the yellow stain as soon as you notice it and continue until the halo disappears. Then wash the garment normally.

Salt and water

Mix a spoonful of salt in a cup of water: take a sponge, dip it in this mixture and rub it directly on the stain. You will discover that even salt, by itself, is a excellent method against yellow spots!

Ammonia

To use ammonia, the procedure is as follows: mix the ammonia in the water and leave the garment to soak in it for a few hours, depending on the intensity of the stain.

Leave to dry and rinse thoroughly.

Lemon juice

Before washing your clothes, mix equal amounts of lemon juice and water and rub the mixture on the stain. Rub gently, until the stain disappears. Then wash again and you will see that the shirt will come back white and clean.

Vodka

Mix equal amounts of vodka with water and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture on the stains and leave it to act for a while, then wash the garment as you normally would: we are sure it will come back as good as new!

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